Madawaska Kanu Centre

Laurentian Brew took a tour just passed Barry's Bay to the Madawaska Kanu Centre this week.

What an amazing spot!! Wow. Just the drive to get there is stunning. Passing through small, rural towns, crossing rivers, and contouring beautiful lakes, it's Ontario wilderness at its finest. 

We were pretty excited to deliver four flavours of kombucha to the MKC's Riverside Shop + Café. The shop serves the students, staff, and day-trippers at the centre, but is also open to the public daily from 7:30am until 6:00pm (worth the trip for a scenic drive and a good latte!). 

A family-run business founded in 1972, Madawaska Kanu Centre was the first whitewater paddling school in the world. Three generations of highly skilled whitewater champions have successfully owned and operated MKC as well as their sister company, Owl Rafting in Foresters Falls. 

Known for their elite athletic background, the founders turned their love of kayaking and canoeing into a wilderness resort and outdoor classroom to bring the passion through education to students and participants from all over the globe. 

The centre offers a multitude of courses and fun on the river including a 5-day Whitewater Canoe and Kayak Program, Weekend Whitewater, Family Weekends, Specialty Programs, Women's Retreats, a 1-day Intro Program, and 2-hour rafting trips. You can have fun learning in the water throughout the day, stay in the on-site accommodations (complete with a yoga room!), purchase a meal package (a week off cooking!?), and enjoy campfires at night. There's certainly something for everyone with all skill levels from beginner to advanced as well as courses in First Aid, Rescue Certification, and Instructor Certification. 

The centre is always open to visit and is welcoming to anyone with questions about the services. The shop is also a great place to pick up some great outdoor gifts, gear, and clothing, and grab a snack and a hot (or cold!) beverage to be enjoyed on the deck (shout out to Christine at The Hemp Cookie Co. who mentioned our beverages after delivering her own delicious hempy cookies to the shop!).

The Madawaska Kanu Centre should be on your list of places to check out this Summer. The river awaits!